THE historic Parade Ground in Georgetown has been transformed with the installation of floodlights, courtesy of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport. This marks a significant step in the government’s ongoing initiative to improve recreational and sporting facilities nationwide.
Minister Charles Ramson Jr. is leading this drive, aiming to provide enhanced spaces for communities across Guyana.

The Parade Ground, situated between Waterloo and Carmichael Streets on Middle Street, is a vital sporting hub, utilised by pupils during the day and the Beacon Football Club for evening training sessions.
The newly installed lights let the club extend its training hours into the evenings.

Otis Roberts, President of the Georgetown Football Association, lauded the government’s commitment, stating that approximately 90% of clubs under his jurisdiction now benefit from lighted training facilities, fulfilling a government promise.
Gordon ‘Ultimate Warrior’ Brathwaite, a long-standing club coach, expressed his delight, calling the installation a “dream come true.”

He reminisced about training at the ground since his primary school days at St. George’s in 1961. He highlighted the Beacon Football Club’s impending 40th anniversary of training at the venue in September, expressing hope for future stand development.
The government’s commitment to sports development is evident in its substantial financial allocations.

In 2024, the nation witnessed an unprecedented ground enhancement programme, with upgrades supported for over 250 grounds nationwide.
Notably, 100 hinterland communities each received $1 million to support their respective upgrades.
The 2025 National Budget further underscores this commitment, allocating G$8 billion for sports advancement.

Specifically, G$2 billion is earmarked for the continued development of community grounds, building upon the 450 grounds that benefitted in 2024. An additional G$1 billion is allocated for the procurement and installation of lighting systems at grounds across the country.

The Parade Ground lighting project symbolises the government’s dedication to improving sporting infrastructure and fostering community engagement through sports.